What Are the Dangers of Noxema?

By Jan Weiss

The Noxzema brand has been around for decades. It was for many years the go-to product for teenage acne treatment. It’s known for deep cleaning but leaving your skin soft. As with anything you put on your skin, it’s important to know what ingredients are in your skin care and what, if any, dangers may be there as well.

Ingredients

The website for Noxzema products lists the ingredients of the original Noxzema Deep Cleansing Cream to contain eucalyptus, menthol and camphor. Additionally, but not listed on their website, it includes ammonium hydroxide, which is used in industrial cleaning products and tire manufacturing. Noxzema also includes ethanol, an alcohol that may dry skin and paraben, a widely used chemical preservative.

Misconceptions

According to Beauty Products Compared, customers have complained that Noxzema can be harsh on sensitive skin. Reviews on Beautypedia.com state that Noxzema is not effective in treating blackheads and does not work as a disinfectant for acne-prone skin.

Considerations

Noxzema is a relatively inexpensive product found at most drugstores. It is a basic product and has not changed much over the years. It does not have any anti-aging benefits especially for fine lines or sagging skin.

Warning

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that Noxzema is for external use only and should be kept away from eyes. Skin irritation may occur; if it does, then discontinue use. However, normal use of this product should not carry with it any serious problems.

Bottom Line

The bottom line is that it’s not terribly dangerous but not terribly effective either. If you are looking for an inexpensive basic skin cleaning treatment then this may be the right product for you. Noxzema is listed as a product that is tested on animals.